End of the Summer Food and Labor Day Ideas

The summer is slowly but surely coming to a close, but before it does there’s one last chance to soak up the sun and enjoy a good old fashioned American BBQ. Labor Day is the time to forget about work, mingle with friends, and enjoy an ice cold American brew… and some American BBQ classics! Here at Netcost Market, we have thought of some simple but exciting ideas to make your BBQ stand out from the rest, leaving your guests with the fond memory of great summer food that you provided!

Hamburgers – You’re probably thinking, “okay… yes I know how to buy and cook some hamburgers on the grill… what’s the big idea?”. Well, we’re proposing that rather than buy your hamburgers ready-made, make them yourself! You will need about two pounds of meat for eight burgers. In a large mixing bowl simply add a finely chopped onion, a teaspoon each of salt and pepper, and a whole egg to the ground beef and mix with your hands by squishing the combination until it is thoroughly mixed. Next, simply shape the mixture into burger patties, cover and place in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them! Making your own burgers is so simple it’s a wonder so many people rely on shop bought varieties. They will taste and look better, and most importantly you will wow all your friends with your culinary skills!

Wings – For large, hungry crowds, wings are a great BBQ option for Labor Day celebrations. Much like burgers, they’re so easy to make and often underrated as a food for the grill. Make a perfect glaze by mixing together three chili peppers, 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce, ½ cup honey, juice of 1 lime, 2 tablespoons soy sauce and some chopped cilantro. This will easily cover about 3 pounds of wings (make sure you marinate for at least 24 hours!), and will leave a lasting kick on the palate for all of your Labor Day guests!

Eggplant and Halloumi Burgers – So, this one is for the vegetarians, but to be honest we’re sure it will also appeal to those that eat meat as it’s one of the tastiest BBQ recipes going! Start by making a tasty cilantro pesto by whizzing together a handful of cilantro (stalks included), juice of 1 lime, 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 clove garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread this generously on a wholemeal burger bun. Next, grill sliced eggplant and halloumi on the BBQ, and simply build the burger once it is done! This simple yet utterly delicious recipe will wow the vegetarian contingent of your guests, but make sure you make plenty as it will surely go fast!

Mint Tea Punch – So, you’ve got the food sorted, but what about the drinks? To really keep your guests refreshed, try making this mint tea punch. Add 4 tea bags to four cups of boiling water and leave it to infuse. In a large jug, mix together 12 sprigs of mint, 1 cup of white sugar, 1 cup of orange juice, a squeeze of lemon juice, three slices of lemon and orange, and four cups of cold water. Next, remove the tea bags from the boiling water and slowly add it to the mixture, giving it a stir to ensure it’s all infused. Leave in the fridge to cool and add plenty of ice cubes before serving! This punch is great as a refreshing soft drink but can also be jazzed up with a splash of rum, vodka, or even good old American whiskey!

Make this Labor Day celebration one to remember by going that extra mile when it comes to food and drinks preparation. Follow the simple recipes above and you will wow all your friends, ensuring that their fond memories of summer last for months to come!